This spring, the RI Department of Labor and Training is holding a free Employer Education Series for area businesses. Space is limited; online registration is required at www.dlt.ri.gov.

The series begins with "Unemployment Insurance Tips for Employers," to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 3, when departmental experts will offer employers strategies for detecting and preventing fraud and improper payments. Additionally, the presenters will explain how the adjudication process applies to individuals unemployed for reasons other than a layoff and will review the proper steps and documentation required on employers in these situations. Because the turn-out for this event is anticipated to be larger that the RI Department of Labor and Training offices can accommodate, this workshop will be held at the Showcase Cinemas at the Warwick Mall, 400 Bald Hill Rd.

A separate workshop, "Workforce Assistance for Local Businesses," will introduce employers to helpful services offered by the department's Business Workforce Center, and will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 14, at the RI Department of Labor and Training, 1511 Pontiac Ave., Cranston. Business Workforce Center representatives will orient employers to free recruitment and assessment services, explore subsidized training opportunities for new and existing workers and review available tax credits related to hiring. Representatives will also discuss Rapid Response services available to the employees of businesses experiencing layoffs.

Lastly, two workshops designed specifically for medical providers are slated for Thursday, May 31 at the department's Pontiac Avenue location. "Temporary Disability Insurance for Medical Providers," to be held at 9:00 a.m., will offer medical professionals an overview of the TDI system, including requirements, processes and fraud reporting assistance. "Workers' Compensation for Medical Providers," to be held at 10:30 a.m., will explain the details of compliance with Workers' Compensation law.